Side by side
bspwm vs i3
Both stand on window management software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
bspwm offers a focused, script-configured tiling environment for Linux and X users. Its separate input requirement and limited stated display-system scope should shape setup expectations.
Visit bspwm Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
i3 offers configurable tiling, workspace and multi-monitor controls for GNU/Linux and BSD. Its X11 focus and file-based configuration are important considerations for prospective users.
Visit i3The facts
| bspwm | i3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Linux, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | i3wm.org |
| On window management software | #12 of 65 | #16 of 65 |
bspwm: what it does well
- Free Linux window manager
- Tree-based tiling model
- Configurable shell-script setup
- Supports RandR and Xinerama
- Multiple community support channels
What to know first
- Keyboard and pointer input need another program
- Project pages do not state other display-system support
- GitHub lists no releases
- No security policy detected
i3: what it does well
- Offers split, stacking and tabbed window layouts.
- Workspaces can be associated with multiple screens.
- Configuration covers key bindings, startup and colors.
- IPC accepts commands and provides event subscriptions.
- Free and open source under the BSD license.
What to know first
- It is an X11 window manager.
- Targets GNU/Linux and BSD.
- Configuration is handled through a file.
- The project primarily targets advanced users and developers.